Calls to reverse grants in lieu decision increase

The voice of displeasure towards the provincial budget is getting louder.

The Saskatchewan Urban Municipalities Association (SUMA) called on the Wall government to reverse the removal of grants in lieu after the City of Regina and Mayor Michael Fougere made the same call.

“We’re making the argument that the budget is unfair and unacceptable and we ask the government to stop downloading onto the municipalities,” said SUMA President Gordon Barnhart.

He said the province has cut $36 million in funding to more than 100 communities after most had already finalized their budgets. Many cities and towns are now left scrambling to make up the shortfall. Barnhart added the funding reduction is punishing communities.

Like Saskatoon council, he said they are consulting with lawyers to see if there’s a case against the provincial government.

“We are looking at legal action,” Barnhart said. “We haven’t decided yet as to whether there is options there but we’re having a look at it.”

Barnhart said he will join the mayors of Regina, Saskatoon and Yorkton Wednesday as they meet with several members of the provincial government.

“We’re hopeful that the government will listen to what we think is a very logical argument.”